People often think they would like to donate blood but find the idea intimidating. Are you one of them? Maybe you’re afraid of the quick sting of the needle-stick, or uncertain as to how your body will react to losing a pint of blood. Perhaps you feel a little queasy when you see blood, or just don’t know what to expect when you walk in the door of a blood drive. Bangor Daily News health reporter Meg Haskell recently dropped by the Bangor Donor Center on outer Hammond Street and chatted with the staff there while giving a unit of blood. Look at the list below to locate a donor opportunity near you. Or you can call the Bangor Donor Center at (207) 941-2900 or toll free at 1-800-432-7376 to schedule an appointment.

Red Cross Blood Drives In August 2011

The American Red Cross, Northern New England Blood Services Region will hold blood drives in cities and towns throughout Maine. All eligible and new blood donors are encouraged to give blood. Donors are needed every day to make sure there is an adequate blood supply for patients in need.

The American Red Cross, Northern New England Blood Services Region will hold blood drives in cities and towns throughoutMaine. All eligible and new blood donors are encouraged to give blood. Donors are needed every day to make sure there is an adequate blood supply for patients in need. All presenting donors in August will receive a Red Sox/Red Cross t-shirt.

The American Red Cross Donor Center, located 900 B Hammond Street in Bangor, is open for donations Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.;  Fridays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the first and third Saturday of each month from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Donors are encouraged to call 1-800 RED CROSS or visit online at redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information.